Best Beef Chili Recipe

I love this chili recipe. I enjoy how tender ground beef, zesty spices, and simmered tomatoes blend together to create a hearty meal bursting with flavor and warmth. This dish is my go-to when I crave a filling, satisfying bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

I’m really excited to share my Best Beef Chili recipe with you all. This classic beef chili is made with 2 lbs ground beef, a large roughly chopped onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic that create a solid flavor foundation.

I also throw in a diced red bell pepper, 2 cans of diced tomatoes and 1 can of tomato sauce to give the dish a tangy, rich base. Adding kidney beans not only increases the protein but also packs a good dose of fiber making the meal both hearty and nutritious.

I mix in 1 cup beef broth, 2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper plus salt and black pepper to taste. This homemade chili seasoning brings a comforting depth to the dish that makes it a standout beef dish.

Its easy to prepare and really filling, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get together.

Why I Like this Recipe

This chili recipe is honestly one of the best i’ve ever tried. Its got ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes and a homemade chili seasoning that makes every bite super flavorful. I love how all the spices mix together to create a warm, hearty dish thats perfect for a cold day. Here are a few reasons i really like this recipe:

1. I love the kick from the spices, like the chili powder and cumin, which makes it taste bold and exciting every time i make it.
2. I like that its pretty easy to whip up. Even though it takes a little while to let the flavors blend, the steps are simple and i never get lost.
3. I appreciate the comfort food vibe. Every time i cook it, it fills my kitchen with an amazing smell that makes me feel right at home.
4. I enjoy that its a great meal for sharing with family and friends, bringing everyone together over a delicious dinner.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: This juicy meat packs protein and iron for hearty energy foods.
• Onion: Adds a crunchy texture and natural sweetness, plus gives vital fiber and vitamins.
• Garlic: Gives a bold taste and natural healing boost with a little kick.
• Red bell pepper: Provides vitamin c and a bit of sweetness while keeping it crunchy.
• Diced tomatoes: They bring tang, moisture and essential vitamins to bind all flavors.
• Kidney beans: They’re loaded with fiber and protein, making the chili extra filling.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped roughly
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional 1 tsp dried oregano

How to Make this

1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the 2 lbs of ground beef; cook it until its well browned and no pink remains.

2. Toss in the chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic and let them cook with the beef for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

3. Sprinkle in the 2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper and if you want, the optional 1 tsp dried oregano; stir it all in so the spices coat the beef and veggies.

4. Pour in the 2 cans of diced tomatoes (with their juices), the can of tomato sauce, and 1 cup beef broth; give it a good stir.

5. Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and mix everything together.

6. Bring the mixture to a simmer then reduce the heat so it gently bubbles; cover the pot.

7. Simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, so all those flavors can really blend together.

8. Taste the chili and add salt and black pepper as needed.

9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade beef chili!

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot for browning the beef and simmering the chili
2. Stove for heating the pot
3. Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper
4. Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring the meat and veggies
5. Measuring spoons and measuring cup for the spices, broth, and other liquids
6. Can opener for opening the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans
7. Colander for draining and rinsing the kidney beans
8. Ladle and serving bowls for serving the chili

FAQ

• Q: How long do i need to cook this chili?
  A: Simmer it on low for about 30 to 45 minutes so all the flavors blend together well.
• Q: Can i swap the kidney beans for another type?
  A: Yes, you can use pinto beans or black beans if you prefer, it will still taste great.
• Q: Is it okay to make this chili a day ahead?
  A: For sure, it tastes even better when the flavors have had time to mingle in the fridge overnight.
• Q: What side dish goes good with this chili?
  A: It pairs well with cornbread or a simple green salad, a perfect match for any meal.

Best Beef Chili Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Ground beef: If you’re short on ground beef, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork instead.
• Large onion: You can swap a large onion for a few shallots or even red onions if that’s what you have on hand.
• Kidney beans: Try using black beans or pinto beans if kidney beans aren’t available.
• Beef broth: Chicken broth or even water with a beef bouillon cube works just as fine if you don’t have beef broth.

Pro Tips

• Make sure you let the ground beef brown really well before adding anything else. It gives the chili a deeper flavor, and if you rush it the beef can turn out kind of bland.
• If you got the time, let the chili simmer longer than the 45 minutes. A slow simmer lets all them flavors blend better, even if it takes a bit extra time to get everything perfect.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices along the way. Start with the suggested amounts but then give it a taste and add a little extra cayenne or cumin if you feel it needs more kick.
• Use a heavy bottomed pot if you can get one. This helps spread the heat evenly so you dont get any burnt bits hidden at the bottom.